Modem Futura

In this lively and thought-provoking episode, Sean and Andrew team up with Ed Finn, Ruth Wylie, and Bob Beard from ASU’s Center for Science and the Imagination for a rapid-fire discussion on the future of humanity. Together, they explore themes like the values that will shape our future, the role of kindness in communities, AI's potential role in governance, and how humor evolves alongside technology.

The conversation delves into fascinating intersections between technology, nature, and human experience. Topics include plant communication, the Gaia hypothesis, the future of transportation and tourism, the evolution of universities, and the existential question: does the future need humanity? This engaging live discussion underscores the importance of balancing technological progress with a deeper connection to nature and community.

Links:

• ASU Center for Science and the Imagination
• Ed Finn
• Ruth Wylie
• Bob Beard

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Future of Being Human Initiative

02:40 Exploring Values in the Future

05:02 The Role of Kindness in Future Societies

12:50 AI, Politics, and the Future of Governance

19:23 The Future of Humor and AI

26:22 Interpreting Communication in Nature

27:38 Plant Communication and Intelligence

30:57 The Gaia Hypothesis and Planetary Awareness

33:41 Technology vs. Nature: A Double-Edged Sword

34:37 The Future of Transportation and Tourism

39:18 The Evolution of Universities in the Future

44:25 The Role of Kindness in Future Communities

48:25 Does the Future Need Us?

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Modem Futura is a production of the Future of Being Human initiative at Arizona State University. Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite shows. To learn more about the Future of Being Human initiative and all of our other projects visit - https://futureofbeinghuman.asu.edu

Host Bios:

Sean M. Leahy, PhD - ASU Bio
Sean is an an internationally recognized technologist, futurist, and educator innovating humanistic approaches to emerging technology through a Futures Studies approach. He is a Foresight Catalyst for the Future of Being Human Initiative and Research Scientist for the School for the Future of Innovation in Society and Senior Global Futures Scholar with the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory at Arizona State University.

Andrew Maynard, PhD - ASU Bio
Andrew is a scientist, author, thought leader, and Professor of Advanced Technology Transitions in the ASU School for the Future of Innovation in Society. He is the founder of the ASU Future of Being Human initiative, Director of the ASU Risk Innovation Nexus, and was previously Associate Dean in the ASU College of Global Futures.

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In this episode of Modum Futura Live, Sean and Andrew explore the concept of digital realities and simulated worlds. They discuss the technological advancements that have made immersive virtual and augmented realities possible, the ethical implications of creating such environments, and the potential impact on human experiences and growth. The conversation gets into the balance between the allure of simulated experiences and the necessity of real-life challenges for personal development. In this engaging conversation, Sean and Andrew explore the complexities of human growth, the implications of simulated realities, and the ethical considerations surrounding technology. They discuss the necessity of adversity for personal development, the potential moral dilemmas of escapist digital environments, and the addictive nature of modern platforms. The conversation also raises the issue of ownership and diversity in virtual worlds, the paradox of fiction, and the future of technology in shaping human experiences. 

Sean and Andrew recorded this episode in front of a live studio audience. Modem Futura was hosted at the Pub as part of the Thunderbird School of Global Management, located in Downtown Phoenix Arizona. 

Links: 

• Thunderbird School of Global Management - https://thunderbird.asu.edu 
• Simulated Reality Definition [wikipedia] 

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Modem Futura is a production of the Future of Being Human initiative at Arizona State University. Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite shows. To learn more about the Future of Being Human initiative and all of our other projects visit - https://futureofbeinghuman.asu.edu

Host Bios:

Sean M. Leahy, PhD - ASU Bio
Sean is an an internationally recognized technologist, futurist, and educator innovating humanistic approaches to emerging technology through a Futures Studies approach. He is a Foresight Catalyst for the Future of Being Human Initiative and Research Scientist for the School for the Future of Innovation in Society and Senior Global Futures Scholar with the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory at Arizona State University.

Andrew Maynard, PhD - ASU Bio
Andrew is a scientist, author, thought leader, and Professor of Advanced Technology Transitions in the ASU School for the Future of Innovation in Society. He is the founder of the ASU Future of Being Human initiative, Director of the ASU Risk Innovation Nexus, and was previously Associate Dean in the ASU College of Global Futures.

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In this episode of Modem Futura, Sean and Andrew dive into the concept of radical creativity, examining its definition, significance, and transformative potential for the future. They challenge conventional thinking, champion unconventional ideas, and explore how creativity can address societal issues. The discussion spans the implications of AI on work, the role of universal basic income (UBI) in a post-scarcity society, and the reimagining of education and career aspirations. They also tackle interplanetary colonization, the scientific value of space exploration, and the psychological challenges of extreme environments. Finally, they emphasize fostering creativity and innovation in future generations, envisioning a world built on flexibility and imagination.

Links: 

• Future of Being Human initiative 
• Universal Basic Income explained 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Radical Creativity

03:06 Defining Radical Creativity

05:57 The Challenge of Conventional Thinking

08:54 Exploring New Perspectives

11:58 Imagining Future Transportation

15:11 Constraints on Creativity

18:02 Radical Ideas for the Future

20:24 The Future of Work in an AI-Driven World

23:13 Universal Basic Income: A Solution or a Dilemma?

25:54 The Impact of UBI on Education and Career Choices

29:36 Creativity and Value Creation in a Post-Job Society

32:23 Imagining a Post-Scarcity Future

36:13 Radical Creativity and the Nature of Economics

38:36 Challenging Scientific Norms and Understanding the Universe

41:59 The Limits of Human Observation

42:29 The Value of Wonder and Radical Imagination

43:51 Envisioning the Future: Backcasting and Creativity

45:48 Interplanetary Colonization: A Mixed Bag of Opportunities

47:40 The Scientific Gains of Human Space Exploration

49:00 The Dual Nature of Space Exploration

51:29 Understanding Human Psychology in Space Missions

53:47 The Complexity of Artificial Ecosystems

54:44 The Inspiration and Risks of Mars Colonization

56:07 The Human Drive to Explore Beyond Boundaries

57:34 Preparing Future Generations for Radical Creativity

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Modem Futura is a production of the Future of Being Human initiative at Arizona State University. Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite shows. To learn more about the Future of Being Human initiative and all of our other projects visit - https://futureofbeinghuman.asu.edu

Host Bios:

Sean M. Leahy, PhD - ASU Bio
Sean is an an internationally recognized technologist, futurist, and educator innovating humanistic approaches to emerging technology through a Futures Studies approach. He is a Foresight Catalyst for the Future of Being Human Initiative and Research Scientist for the School for the Future of Innovation in Society and Senior Global Futures Scholar with the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory at Arizona State University.

Andrew Maynard, PhD - ASU Bio
Andrew is a scientist, author, thought leader, and Professor of Advanced Technology Transitions in the ASU School for the Future of Innovation in Society. He is the founder of the ASU Future of Being Human initiative, Director of the ASU Risk Innovation Nexus, and was previously Associate Dean in the ASU College of Global Futures.

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In this engaging conversation, Sean, Andrew, and Ruth explore the themes of visualization, futures thinking, and the importance of agency in shaping personal and collective futures. They discuss the challenges individuals face in visualizing concepts and the role of lived experiences in imagining future scenarios. The conversation also gets into the significance of introducing futures thinking in education, particularly for young people, to foster resilience and empower them to shape their own futures. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the evolving role of educators, emphasizing the need for futures thinking in classrooms. They explore the importance of empathy and social responsibility, the shift from dystopian narratives to hopeful futures, and the impact of individual actions on creating a better world. The discussion also touches on the Goldilocks principle in futures thinking and how life experiences shape our ability to envision the future. Ultimately, they argue for a transformative approach to education that fosters imagination and prepares students for an uncertain future. 

Links: 

• ASU's Center for Science and Imagination 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage

02:01 The Challenge of Visualization

09:55 Imagining Futures: The Role of Experience

15:01 Futures Thinking in Education

20:49 The Importance of Agency in Shaping Futures

22:22 The Evolving Role of Teachers in STEM Education

24:01 Understanding Futures Thinking

26:30 Navigating Uncertainty in Education

28:05 Empathy and Social Responsibility in Futures Thinking

30:00 Shifting Perspectives: From Dystopia to Hope

32:44 Building a Better Future: Individual Actions Matter

34:10 The Goldilocks Principle in Futures Thinking

39:10 The Impact of Life Experience on Future Thinking

45:04 Imagination in Education: Breaking Free from Constraints

46:38 The Evolution of Education vs. Industry

48:59 Infusing Futures Thinking into Education

49:59 Parental Perspectives on Education

53:46 The Importance of Open-Ended Questions

56:39 Becoming Citizen Futurists

01:00:42 Who Owns the Future?

01:08:30 Closing Thoughts and Future Engagement

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Modem Futura is a production of the Future of Being Human initiative at Arizona State University. Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite shows. To learn more about the Future of Being Human initiative and all of our other projects visit - https://futureofbeinghuman.asu.edu

Host Bios:

Sean M. Leahy, PhD - ASU Bio
Sean is an an internationally recognized technologist, futurist, and educator innovating humanistic approaches to emerging technology through a Futures Studies approach. He is a Foresight Catalyst for the Future of Being Human Initiative and Research Scientist for the School for the Future of Innovation in Society and Senior Global Futures Scholar with the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory at Arizona State University.

Andrew Maynard, PhD - ASU Bio
Andrew is a scientist, author, thought leader, and Professor of Advanced Technology Transitions in the ASU School for the Future of Innovation in Society. He is the founder of the ASU Future of Being Human initiative, Director of the ASU Risk Innovation Nexus, and was previously Associate Dean in the ASU College of Global Futures.

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Sean and Andrew explore the challenges and limitations of AI reasoning, especially in large language models (LLMs). They discuss recent Apple research questioning LLMs' true reasoning abilities, emphasizing that these models rely heavily on pattern recognition rather than genuine understanding. Their conversation addresses the hype around AI, its inherent fragility, and the importance of fostering AI literacy to avoid misplaced trust. They examine AI's potential as a writing partner, the critical need for accuracy in sensitive areas like healthcare and education, and the ethical implications of AI's role in digital communication, advocating for a nuanced, responsible approach to AI development.

Links: 

• Gary Marcus on AI [Substack]
• Apple white paper - GSM-Symbolic: Understanding the Limitations of Mathematical Reasoning in Large Language Models
• Whisper in Hospitals [AP]
• Samsung's Moon Picture Controversy

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to AI Reasoning Challenges

04:46 Exploring AI's Limitations in Reasoning

12:36 The Fragility of AI Models

20:48 The Hype vs. Reality of AI Capabilities

25:56 AI Literacy and Trust Issues

28:58 Future Directions for AI Development

30:48 The Future of AI as a Writing Partner

33:39 Trust and Literacy in AI Applications

39:13 Critical Applications and the Need for Accuracy

43:46 Manipulation in Digital Communication

51:50 The Ethics of AI in High-Stakes Interactions

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Modem Futura is a production of the Future of Being Human initiative at Arizona State University. Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite shows. To learn more about the Future of Being Human initiative and all of our other projects visit - https://futureofbeinghuman.asu.edu

Host Bios:

Sean M. Leahy, PhD - ASU Bio
Sean is an an internationally recognized technologist, futurist, and educator innovating humanistic approaches to emerging technology through a Futures Studies approach. He is a Foresight Catalyst for the Future of Being Human Initiative and Research Scientist for the School for the Future of Innovation in Society and Senior Global Futures Scholar with the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory at Arizona State University.

Andrew Maynard, PhD - ASU Bio
Andrew is a scientist, author, thought leader, and Professor of Advanced Technology Transitions in the ASU School for the Future of Innovation in Society. He is the founder of the ASU Future of Being Human initiative, Director of the ASU Risk Innovation Nexus, and was previously Associate Dean in the ASU College of Global Futures.

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Are we living a simulation? We get 'real' with the simulation hypothesis, exploring its implications on reality, consciousness, and ethics. The conversation with Riz covers various themes including the nature of simulations, the multiverse, the Mandela effect, quantum physics, and the philosophical and religious implications of living in a simulated reality. The conversation also touches on the ethical considerations surrounding AI and the rights of simulated beings, ultimately questioning the significance of our existence within a potential simulation.

Links: 

Rizwan Virk

@rizstanford
 

Chapters

00:00 The Allure of Video Games

08:45 Introduction to the Simulation Hypothesis

10:43 Understanding the Simulation Hypothesis

17:39 Philosophical Implications of Simulation

24:12 Skepticism and Belief in Simulation

32:28 Why Do We Play Games?

33:23 Exploring the Simulation Hypothesis

36:02 The Multiverse and Alternate Timelines

39:52 The Mandela Effect and Memory

42:38 Quantum Physics and Simulation Theory

53:05 Ethics in a Simulated Reality

01:04:51 Religious Perspectives on Simulation Theory

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Modem Futura is a production of the Future of Being Human initiative at Arizona State University. Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite shows. To learn more about the Future of Being Human initiative and all of our other projects visit - https://futureofbeinghuman.asu.edu

Host Bios:

Sean M. Leahy, PhD - ASU Bio
Sean is an an internationally recognized technologist, futurist, and educator innovating humanistic approaches to emerging technology through a Futures Studies approach. He is a Foresight Catalyst for the Future of Being Human Initiative and Research Scientist for the School for the Future of Innovation in Society and Senior Global Futures Scholar with the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory at Arizona State University.

Andrew Maynard, PhD - ASU Bio
Andrew is a scientist, author, thought leader, and Professor of Advanced Technology Transitions in the ASU School for the Future of Innovation in Society. He is the founder of the ASU Future of Being Human initiative, Director of the ASU Risk Innovation Nexus, and was previously Associate Dean in the ASU College of Global Futures.

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In this conversation, Sean and Andrew explore the future of transportation, particularly focusing on driverless cars and the implications of autonomous vehicles. They discuss the current state of technology, the various levels of automation, and the societal changes that may arise from widespread adoption of self-driving cars. The conversation also touches on personal experiences with Waymo, the challenges of public perception, and the potential benefits for individuals with disabilities. In this conversation, the hosts explore the experience of riding in an autonomous vehicle, specifically a Waymo, discussing its driving behavior, safety features, and the implications of self-driving technology. They touch on the normalization of autonomous driving, the data surrounding safety, and the ethical dilemmas posed by such technology, including the famous trolley problem. The discussion highlights the advancements in autonomous driving while also questioning the responsibilities and societal impacts of these technologies.

See the Full Waymo Ride [YouTube] 

Special Acknowledgment 
We'd like to acknowledge the partial funding support provided by the US Department of Transportation-sponsored Travel Behavior and Demand National University Transportation Center led by The University of Texas at Austin. The Center, of which Arizona State University is a consortium member, has helped make this podcast episode, and the research we're discussing, possible

Chapters
00:00 Envisioning the Future of Transportation

03:00 The Reality of Driverless Cars

11:59 Understanding Levels of Automation

23:55 The Road Ahead for Autonomous Vehicles

31:13 Navigating Autonomous Driving: A New Experience

39:17 The Waymo Experience: First Impressions and Observations

50:41 Safety in Autonomous Vehicles: Analyzing the Data

59:57 Ethical Dilemmas in Autonomous Driving: The Trolley Problem

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Modem Futura is a production of the Future of Being Human initiative at Arizona State University. Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite shows. To learn more about the Future of Being Human initiative and all of our other projects visit - https://futureofbeinghuman.asu.edu

Host Bios:

Sean M. Leahy, PhD - ASU Bio
Sean is an an internationally recognized technologist, futurist, and educator innovating humanistic approaches to emerging technology through a Futures Studies approach. He is a Foresight Catalyst for the Future of Being Human Initiative and Research Scientist for the School for the Future of Innovation in Society and Senior Global Futures Scholar with the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory at Arizona State University.

Andrew Maynard, PhD - ASU Bio
Andrew is a scientist, author, thought leader, and Professor of Advanced Technology Transitions in the ASU School for the Future of Innovation in Society. He is the founder of the ASU Future of Being Human initiative, Director of the ASU Risk Innovation Nexus, and was previously Associate Dean in the ASU College of Global Futures.

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Hosts Sean and Andrew reflect on the challenges of defining human identity in the context of advancing technology and the responsibilities of society in managing these innovations. In this conversation, our hosts explore the evolving landscape of AI, particularly focusing on OpenAI's transition to a for-profit model. They discuss the ethical implications of AI development, the ecological impact of technological changes, and the societal responsibilities that come with innovation. The conversation  emphasizes the need for transparency, public engagement, and a balanced approach to harnessing technology for the greater good, while also addressing the potential risks and unintended consequences of unchecked advancements.

Chapters

00:00 The Origins of AI: Turing's Question

10:01 The Nature of Thought: Machines vs. Humans

20:10 The Ethical Implications of AI Development

28:10 The Future of Consciousness and Identity

29:02 The Superhero Archetype and Change

30:54 The Evolution of OpenAI

32:19 Ethics and Responsibility in AI Development

35:38 Technological Trade-offs and Ecological Changes

38:56 The Mythic Status of Technology

41:43 Trusting For-Profit Entities with AI

43:41 Reclaiming Research for Public Good

46:28 Balancing Innovation and Ethical Oversight

49:40 The Role of Society in AI Development

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Modem Futura is a production of the Future of Being Human initiative at Arizona State University. Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite shows. To learn more about the Future of Being Human initiative and all of our other projects visit - https://futureofbeinghuman.asu.edu

Host Bios:

Sean M. Leahy, PhD - ASU Bio
Sean is an an internationally recognized technologist, futurist, and educator innovating humanistic approaches to emerging technology through a Futures Studies approach. He is a Foresight Catalyst for the Future of Being Human Initiative and Research Scientist for the School for the Future of Innovation in Society and Senior Global Futures Scholar with the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory at Arizona State University.

Andrew Maynard, PhD - ASU Bio
Andrew is a scientist, author, thought leader, and Professor of Advanced Technology Transitions in the ASU School for the Future of Innovation in Society. He is the founder of the ASU Future of Being Human initiative, Director of the ASU Risk Innovation Nexus, and was previously Associate Dean in the ASU College of Global Futures.

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In this Halloween special Sean and Andrew are joined by Ed Finn, the founding director of the Center for Science and the Imagination. The conversation explores the historical impact of Orson Welles' radio adaptation of H.G. Wells' War of the Worlds, the role of technology in storytelling, and the cultural significance of Halloween. They discuss how speculative fiction can inspire collective imagination for better futures, while also reflecting on societal fears and anxieties. In this engaging conversation, the speakers explore themes of colonial anxieties, the power dynamic, and the unsettling nature of narratives in literature and media. They discuss the importance of human connection in the face of catastrophe, the nature of scary movies, and the community aspects of Halloween traditions. 

Links: 

• Ed Finn - ASU Bio
• Center for Science and the Imagination (ASU)

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Halloween Special

03:17 The Impact of War of the Worlds

11:59 Exploring the Center for Science and Imagination

18:54 The Role of Technology in Storytelling

26:59 Halloween: A Cultural Reflection

30:01 Spectacle and Unsettling Narratives

32:33 Human Connection in Catastrophe

36:35 The Nature of Scary Movies

45:14 Future of Sci-Fi and Upcoming Events

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Modem Futura is a production of the Future of Being Human initiative at Arizona State University. Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite shows. To learn more about the Future of Being Human initiative and all of our other projects visit - https://futureofbeinghuman.asu.edu

Host Bios:

Sean M. Leahy, PhD - ASU Bio
Sean is an an internationally recognized technologist, futurist, and educator innovating humanistic approaches to emerging technology through a Futures Studies approach. He is a Foresight Catalyst for the Future of Being Human Initiative and Research Scientist for the School for the Future of Innovation in Society and Senior Global Futures Scholar with the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory at Arizona State University.

Andrew Maynard, PhD - ASU Bio
Andrew is a scientist, author, thought leader, and Professor of Advanced Technology Transitions in the ASU School for the Future of Innovation in Society. He is the founder of the ASU Future of Being Human initiative, Director of the ASU Risk Innovation Nexus, and was previously Associate Dean in the ASU College of Global Futures.

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In this episode, hosts Sean and Andrew jump right into the complex themes surrounding biohacking, data ownership, and the ethical implications of genetic data. They explore the historical context of data ownership, the evolution of biohacking, and the responsibilities that come with technological advancements. The conversation also highlights the case of 23andMe, discussing the potential risks and benefits of personal data collection and the need for regulations to protect individuals. Ultimately, they emphasize the importance of balancing innovation with ethical considerations as we navigate the future of technology and humanity.

Links:

• Andrew's 23andMe Substack article 

Key conversational takeaways

• Ownership of personal data raises significant ethical questions about identity and privacy.
• Technological advancements can lead to unforeseen consequences that require careful consideration.
• Biohacking can range from non-invasive methods to more extreme measures, blurring the lines of medical ethics.
• The future of personal data is uncertain, especially with companies like 23andMe facing challenges.
• Synthetic data could provide opportunities for innovation while protecting individual privacy.
• The intersection of technology and humanity requires ongoing dialogue about ethics and responsibility.
• Exploring the unknown possibilities of biohacking can lead to both positive and negative outcomes.

Chapters

00:00 Exploring the Future of Humanity

01:09 The Ownership of Data and Identity

04:27 Understanding Biohacking: Definitions and Implications

10:22 The Balance of Innovation and Responsibility

13:40 The Case of 23andMe: Data Privacy and Ethics

20:26 The Future of Personal Data and Its Consequences

26:07 Synthetic Data: Opportunities and Ethical Considerations

32:55 Biohacking: The Intersection of Technology and Humanity

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Modem Futura is a production of the Future of Being Human initiative at Arizona State University. Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite shows. To learn more about the Future of Being Human initiative and all of our other projects visit - https://futureofbeinghuman.asu.edu

Host Bios:

Sean M. Leahy, PhD - ASU Bio
Sean is an an internationally recognized technologist, futurist, and educator innovating humanistic approaches to emerging technology through a Futures Studies approach. He is a Foresight Catalyst for the Future of Being Human Initiative and Research Scientist for the School for the Future of Innovation in Society and Senior Global Futures Scholar with the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory at Arizona State University.

Andrew Maynard, PhD - ASU Bio
Andrew is a scientist, author, thought leader, and Professor of Advanced Technology Transitions in the ASU School for the Future of Innovation in Society. He is the founder of the ASU Future of Being Human initiative, Director of the ASU Risk Innovation Nexus, and was previously Associate Dean in the ASU College of Global Futures.

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Links

• H.G. Wells 1902 / 1913 "The Discovery of the future" (available via HathiTrust)
• Andrew's Article on NotebookLM (available via Substack)

Main talking points and takeaways

• Notebook LM allows AI to create podcast-like summaries.
• AI-generated content can sound convincingly human.
• Listening to AI can challenge our perception of truth.
• Generative AI is evolving beyond simple text generation.
• Spatial intelligence in AI could revolutionize interactions.
• AI's biases reflect human biases in its training data.
• The future of AI includes more sophisticated architectures.
• AI can create immersive virtual environments.
• Humanoid robots are becoming more accessible and relevant.
• Critical engagement with AI is essential for its ethical use.

Chapters

00:00 Exploring AI in Podcasting

02:59 The Evolution of Notebook LM

06:00 The Impact of AI on Perception

09:11 The Role of AI in Content Creation

11:58 The Future of AI and Spatial Intelligence

15:06 The Next Generation of AI Models

17:54 The Promise of AI in Virtual Worlds

21:03 The Intersection of AI and Robotics

24:12 Concluding Thoughts on AI's Future

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Modem Futura is a production of the Future of Being Human initiative at Arizona State University. Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite shows. To learn more about the Future of Being Human initiative and all of our other projects visit - https://futureofbeinghuman.asu.edu

Host Bios:

Sean M. Leahy, PhD - ASU Bio
Sean is an an internationally recognized technologist, futurist, and educator innovating humanistic approaches to emerging technology through a Futures Studies approach. He is a Foresight Catalyst for the Future of Being Human Initiative and Research Scientist for the School for the Future of Innovation in Society and Senior Global Futures Scholar with the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory at Arizona State University.

Andrew Maynard, PhD - ASU Bio
Andrew is a scientist, author, thought leader, and Professor of Advanced Technology Transitions in the ASU School for the Future of Innovation in Society. He is the founder of the ASU Future of Being Human initiative, Director of the ASU Risk Innovation Nexus, and was previously Associate Dean in the ASU College of Global Futures.

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In this episode of Modem Futura, hosts Andrew and Sean get into the complexities of the future of being human, exploring the role of technology, innovation, and individual perspectives in shaping our collective futures. They discuss the importance of curiosity, creativity, and inclusivity in futures studies, while also reflecting on the historical context provided by figures like H.G. Wells. The conversation emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to navigating technological advancements and the responsibility of individuals in co-creating the future.

Links:

• H.G. Wells 1902 / 1913 "The Discovery of the future" (available via HathiTrust)

Key Takeaways

• AI tools have seen a rise and fall in popularity.
• The Future of Being Human initiative aims to explore diverse perspectives.
• Future studies help us imagine and shape our futures.
• Individual futures are as important as collective futures.
• Technological advancements require careful navigation.
• Innovation is an inevitable part of being human.
• Curiosity and creativity are essential for future thinking.
• Inclusivity in discussions leads to richer insights.
• H.G. Wells laid the groundwork for future studies.
• Humanity is still evolving and not the final product.

Chapters (if you want to skip around)

00:00 The Rise and Fall of AI Tools

03:03 Exploring the Future of Being Human

05:52 The Purpose of Future Studies

09:04 Individual vs. Collective Futures

11:54 Navigating Technological Advancements

15:13 The Role of Innovation in Humanity

17:55 Guiding Principles for Future Thinking

20:51 Catalytic Serendipity and Inclusivity

24:05 Curiosity and Creativity in Future Studies

27:13 The Fragility of Human Existence

29:58 H.G. Wells and the Science of Futures

32:46 The Evolution of Humanity

36:07 Conclusion and Future Directions

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Modem Futura is a production of the Future of Being Human initiative at Arizona State University. Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite shows. To learn more about the Future of Being Human initiative and all of our other projects visit - https://futureofbeinghuman.asu.edu

Host Bios:

Sean M. Leahy, PhD - ASU Bio
Sean is an an internationally recognized technologist, futurist, and educator innovating humanistic approaches to emerging technology through a Futures Studies approach. He is a Foresight Catalyst for the Future of Being Human Initiative and Research Scientist for the School for the Future of Innovation in Society and Senior Global Futures Scholar with the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory at Arizona State University.

Andrew Maynard, PhD - ASU Bio
Andrew is a scientist, author, thought leader, and Professor of Advanced Technology Transitions in the ASU School for the Future of Innovation in Society. He is the founder of the ASU Future of Being Human initiative, Director of the ASU Risk Innovation Nexus, and was previously Associate Dean in the ASU College of Global Futures.

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In this pilot episode of Modem Futura, hosts Sean Leahy and Andrew Maynard explore the intersection of technology, society, and the human experience. They discuss the origins of the podcast, the significance of the Future of Being Human Initiative, and the importance of inclusive conversations about the future. The episode highlights personal journeys into futurism, the need for diverse voices in discussions about emerging technologies, and the wonder of scientific exploration. The hosts also tease future topics and themes for upcoming episodes, emphasizing the podcast's goal of inspiring curiosity and dialogue.

Key takeaways

The podcast aims to explore the intersection of technology and humanity.

Modems symbolize the translation of complex signals into understandable insights.

The Future of Being Human Initiative seeks to create inclusive conversations about the future.

Personal experiences shape our understanding of futurism and technology.

Everyone has valuable insights to contribute to discussions about the future.

Creating spaces for difficult conversations is essential in a polarized world.

Science and wonder can coexist in discussions about the future.

The podcast will cover a wide range of intriguing topics.

Engaging with diverse voices enriches the conversation about the future.

Sean and Andrew are excited to explore the unknown and challenge conventional thinking.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Modem Futura

01:53 The Concept of Modems and Futures

04:51 The Future of Being Human Initiative

08:41 Personal Journeys into Futurism

12:21 The Importance of Inclusive Conversations

16:24 Exploring the Intersection of Science and Wonder

19:05 Looking Ahead: Topics and Themes for Future Episodes

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Modem Futura is a production of the Future of Being Human initiative at Arizona State University. Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite shows. To learn more about the Future of Being Human initiative and all of our other projects visit - https://futureofbeinghuman.asu.edu

Host Bios:

Sean M. Leahy, PhD - ASU Bio
Sean is an an internationally recognized technologist, futurist, and educator innovating humanistic approaches to emerging technology through a Futures Studies approach. He is a Foresight Catalyst for the Future of Being Human Initiative and Research Scientist for the School for the Future of Innovation in Society and Senior Global Futures Scholar with the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory at Arizona State University.

Andrew Maynard, PhD - ASU Bio
Andrew is a scientist, author, thought leader, and Professor of Advanced Technology Transitions in the ASU School for the Future of Innovation in Society. He is the founder of the ASU Future of Being Human initiative, Director of the ASU Risk Innovation Nexus, and was previously Associate Dean in the ASU College of Global Futures.

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Welcome to Modem Futura, where we journey into the future to explore the dynamic intersection of technology, society, and humanity. In this trailer, get a glimpse of how we dive into the innovations shaping our world and challenge the myths and narratives that define what it means to be human in a rapidly changing landscape. Tune in for an adventurous exploration of the ideas that will inspire new ways of thinking about tomorrow.

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Modem Futura is a production of the Future of Being Human initiative at Arizona State University. Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite shows. To learn more about the Future of Being Human initiative and all of our other projects visit - https://futureofbeinghuman.asu.edu

Host Bios:

Sean M. Leahy, PhD - ASU Bio
Sean is an an internationally recognized technologist, futurist, and educator innovating humanistic approaches to emerging technology through a Futures Studies approach. He is a Foresight Catalyst for the Future of Being Human Initiative and Research Scientist for the School for the Future of Innovation in Society and Senior Global Futures Scholar with the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory at Arizona State University.

Andrew Maynard, PhD - ASU Bio
Andrew is a scientist, author, thought leader, and Professor of Advanced Technology Transitions in the ASU School for the Future of Innovation in Society. He is the founder of the ASU Future of Being Human initiative, Director of the ASU Risk Innovation Nexus, and was previously Associate Dean in the ASU College of Global Futures.

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